YouTube Doubles Monetization Requirements for New Creators

YouTube is increasing the eligibility requirements for new creators to monetize their channels through the YouTube Partner Program effective February 1, 2027. New applicants must maintain 1,000 subscribers and achieve either 8,000 qualified watch hours in a year or 20 million qualified Shorts views in 90 days, doubling the previous thresholds for watch hours and Shorts views.

Existing partners must accept new terms by January 31, 2027, and meet minimum activity levels to maintain their status. Specifically, creators must maintain 10 million qualified Shorts views over 90 days to keep Shorts revenue sharing; those who fall below this mark will retain their general YPP status and long-form earnings but lose Shorts revenue until they meet the threshold again.

To offset these stricter barriers, the platform is expanding its Premium Lite subscription globally, which offers ad-free viewing and background play. YouTube claims that Premium subscribers generate higher average earnings for partners than ad-supported views. The company also plans to introduce incentive programs linked to shopping milestones and brand deals to support smaller channels.

These changes signal a strategic shift for the platform as it moves toward a premium TV service model similar to Netflix and Disney Plus. This transition includes the introduction of season-based video organization and new broadcasting deals.